Gotham FC vs LD Alajuelense: How to watch, time, and more of first Champions Cup game

The time has finally arrived and NJ/NY Gotham FC will play their first match of the CONCACAF W Champions Cup.  They will play Liga Deportiva Alajuelense Femenil, also known as Alajuelense Fútbol Femenino or LD Alajuelense, in Costa Rica.  Alajuelense already played their first game and won, so the Bats will try to steal three points from them at their home ground.

Plus, Gotham also wants to shake off the loss against the Orlando Pride from over the weekend.  This would be a perfect game to do so, but they must score.  The offense against Orlando was good when all is said and done.  The issue was that the ladies could not capitalize on their chances.

While rotation will be a must due to the busy September schedule, Juan Carlos Amorós might want to not utilize Emily Sonnett as a right-back.  While the entire backline was at fault for the goals given up in Florida, it was an interesting decision to not start Bruninha.  The Brazilian has been superb throughout the summer and adds the attacking flair the Bats need.  Moreover, this might be a good time to split Jess Carter, Tierna Davidson, Sam Hiatt, Maitane López, and Sonnett where two of the five start on Thursday and two more on Sunday.

There is no question Gotham FC has the depth in the backline where there are multiple options.  The same goes for the rest of the Starting XI.  Regardless of the chosen players, the Bats should have a shot at taking home points and winning their first CONCACAF W Champions Cup match.

How to watch and time of Gotham FC’s game against LD Alajuelense

Date

Thursday, September 5

Time

8:00 PM ET, with an expected kickoff time a little after 8:00 PM ET

How to watch on TV and streaming

Paramount+

How to watch in person

Fans would have to travel to Alajuela, Costa Rica

How to listen

Unknown at this time

How to follow

Gotham FC supporters can follow the game via Gotham FC’s X account.  In addition, websites like ESPN and the NWSL will have commentary feeds during the match.

Final Notes

As a reminder, the group round of the Champions Cup will take place this season.  There are two groups with five teams and only the top two of each group move on to the knockout stage.  The semifinals, third-place game, and finals will occur next spring.  This might be on a smaller scale compared to the men’s tournament, but this is just the first year. Hence, there is hope the Champions Cup will grow and Gotham FC will have numerous chances to play in the tournament year after year.